1982 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 735 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Fiat 131 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1982 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1982 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | A |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1365 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
